iPhone Not Connecting to WiFi? 

fSimple troubleshooting can often resolve the issue if your iPhone refuses to connect to a WiFi network.

Whether it's a settings problem, signal interference, or a router issue, following these steps can help restore your connection.

Troubleshooting WiFi Connection Issues on iPhone

1. Verify Airplane Mode Status

Your iPhone may not connect to WiFi if Airplane Mode is on. This feature disables wireless connections, including WiFi. If you recently traveled or accidentally enabled it, turn it off:

• Open Control Center and check if the Airplane Mode icon is highlighted.

• If enabled, tap to disable it and reconnect to WiFi.

2. Confirm WiFi is Turned On

WiFi may be simply turned off. You can check and enable it in a few ways:

• Open Settings > WiFi and switch it on.

• Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to open Control Center, then tap the WiFi icon to enable it.

If the WiFi toggle appears grayed out, this could indicate a software issue.

3. Resolve a Grayed-Out WiFi Toggle

Sometimes, the WiFi option in settings appears unavailable. To fix this:

• Restart your iPhone.

• Update iOS to the latest version.

• If the issue persists, reset Network Settings (explained later in the guide).

4. Troubleshoot WiFi Password Issues

If you are repeatedly prompted for a WiFi password, consider the following:

• Ensure you are entering the correct password.

• If at home, verify if someone changed the network password.

• Try forgetting and reconnecting to the network (steps below).

5. Forget and Reconnect to the WiFi Network

For persistent connection issues, forgetting and rejoining the WiFi network may help:

• Go to Settings > WiFi.

• Tap the connected network and select Forget This Network.

• Reconnect by selecting the WiFi and entering the password.

6. Restart Your iPhone

Rebooting the device can clear temporary system glitches:

• Press and hold the Side Button and Volume Up (or just the Power Button on older models) until the power slider appears.

• Drag the slider to turn off the iPhone.

• Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.

7. Reset Network Settings

Resetting network settings might fix the problem if WiFi still doesn't work. Be aware that this action will remove all saved WiFi networks and passwords.

• Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.

• Select Reset > Reset Network Settings.

• Enter your passcode and confirm the reset.

8. Restart Your WiFi Router

Your router may be the issue, but not your iPhone. To check:

• Restart the router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

• Move closer to the router and try reconnecting.

• Ensure your router firmware is updated.

9. Update iOS

A software bug could be interfering with your WiFi connection. Updating iOS may resolve it:

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

• If an update is available, install it.

10. Restore iPhone to Factory Settings

If nothing else works, you may need to reset your iPhone completely. This should be a last resort, as it erases everything on the device.

Steps to Factory Reset Your iPhone

Steps	Description
1	Back up your iPhone via iCloud or iTunes.
2	Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
3	Select Erase All Content and Settings.
4	Follow the prompts to reset your device.
5	Set up your iPhone as new or restore from backup.

If you restore from backup, be aware that you may reintroduce the original issue.

11. Contact Apple Support

It may be a hardware issue if you still can’t connect to WiFi. Visit an Apple Store or contact Apple Support online.

You can also schedule a Genius Bar appointment for diagnosis and repair.

Why Won't My iPhone Connect to WiFi? Common Causes

Problem	Possible Cause
Airplane icon instead of WiFi	Airplane Mode is enabled.
WiFi toggle is grayed out	Software issue or restriction.
Keeps asking for a password	Incorrect password or router settings.
No internet despite the connection	Router or modem issue.

FAQs

1. Why does my iPhone connect to WiFi without the internet?

Your router may not be connected to the internet. Restart the modem and ensure all cables are securely connected.

2. How can I find my WiFi password on iPhone?

You cannot view saved passwords directly, but you can share them:

• Bring another Apple device nearby.

• A Share Password prompt appears on your screen when they attempt to connect.

• Tap Share Password to allow access.

3. Why won't my iPhone connect to my car?

If CarPlay doesn’t work:

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled.

• Check if the iOS version is compatible with your car.

• Restart both your iPhone and the vehicle’s infotainment system.

4. Why won't my iPhone connect to my computer?

If your iPhone isn’t detected by a computer:

• Update iTunes and your macOS/Windows software.

• Reset Location & Privacy settings under Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.

• In Windows, update the Apple Mobile Device USB Driver.

5. How can I share WiFi from my Mac to my iPhone?

If you need to connect your iPhone to a Mac’s WiFi network:

• Ensure your Apple ID is added to both devices.

• Move the devices close together.

• Tap Share Password when prompted.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most WiFi-related problems on your iPhone.